Headrest and seat video imaging apparatus

ABSTRACT

A video imaging apparatus for receiving, recording, and displaying images from a vehicle in which the video camera connects to a lateral upper portion of a seat in the vehicle. A member communicates light representative of an image to an image receiver. A mount selectively orients the angular view of the image receiver. A method of providing vehicles with after-market imaging apparatus and installation thereof is disclosed.

[0001] The present application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Ser.No. 09/398,910 filed Sep. 14, 1999, as a continuation-in-part of U.S.Ser. No. 09/252,265, filed Feb. 18, 1999, as a continuation-in-part ofU.S. Ser. No. 09/121,155 filed Jul. 22, 1998.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present invention relates to apparatus for mounting videoimaging equipment in vehicles. More particularly, the present inventionrelates to video and audio imaging apparatus incorporated with seats invehicles.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] In recent years, military, taxis, private persons, police andprivate detectives have added video cameras to their equipment list forvideo recording of activities, persons, races, passing scenes, patrolsand investigations. For police particularly, the video camera provides avisual record of events such as traffic stops, chases, and otherincidents of law enforcement. Private detectives also record incidentsfor evidentiary purposes during investigations.

[0004] Various devices have been provided for supporting video camerasin vehicles. Stationary investigations allow use of tripods mounted inthe vehicle to support the video cameras. The tripod readily stands inmany vans or other trucks which have room for the legs to spread andthereby provide a stable foundation for using a video camera attachedthereto. Tripods however are not readily adaptable for use in passengervehicles which have limited space in the rear seat portion of the car.Generally, the legs are insufficiently separated for image recordingstability.

[0005] For military, taxi, and police vehicles particularly, videocameras typically mount on U-shaped brackets attached to the forwardportion of the roof adjacent the windshield. The bracket receives thevideo camera for a forward view through the windshield in order toprovide a record of traffic stops, automobile chases, and the like.Other camera mounts have been used to secure video or television cameraswithin automobiles, such as race cars to provide a driver's perspectiveduring an automobile race being broadcasted on television. One knowndevice for mounting a camera in a car maintains the camera level withrespect to the roads surface regardless of acceleration or gravitationalforces. The camera is supported on a pendulum suspended from a gimbleand constrained with spring and damping elements which match the vehiclesuspension system in order to produce equal and opposite rotations ofthe pendulum in response to the movements of the vehicle.

[0006] Other devices are less complicated. One such device mounts acamera in a protective box which attaches to the rear deck of thevehicle near the back window. Telescoping members connect the box to therear deck. Coil springs absorb shock in order to dampen vibrationscommunicated to the camera. Another device provides a channel memberwith a depending plate at one end. The plate is received in a slot of anupper edge of a car seat which normally receives a tongue or supportmember of a headrest. A distal end of the channel rests on top of thedashboard of the vehicle. A camera mounts with a bolt through an openingin the channel. An elastic hold-down and stabilizing cord is used tosecure the distal end of the channel to the dashboard.

[0007] My U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/919,298 discloses atransverse bar which connects at opposing distal ends to the supportsfor headrests in the seats of vehicles. The video camera mounts to apivotable support attached to the transverse bar, whereby the camera maybe oriented at a selected angle for recording.

[0008] While these devices have generally functioned to support a camerawithin a car, there are drawbacks to their use. Mounting the camera on arear deck of a car does not satisfactorily show dashboard informationwhich is useful and important during automobile races or otheractivities in which such information is important, e.g., auto racing,police incidents such as those that involve the stopping of a vehiclefor example for excessive speed, accident recordation in vehicles suchas trucks, trains, vessels or aircraft, driver training, storm chasing,surveying, private investigations, wildlife and hunting recordation,film for cinematography or advertising, television news, and other. Alsothis perspective view differs from that seen by the driver or operatorof the vehicle. On the other hand, placing the camera closer to thewindshield may have the camera to far forward to show the dashboard ofthe car which had key gauges, such as the speedometer, displayinginformation about the car. Brackets which are cantilevered in the carare susceptible to vibration as the distal end is not adequatelysecured. Further, such brackets that mount to the seat slot for headrestsupports occupies one of the headrests and takes the space otherwiseoccupied by a passenger.

[0009] Also, surveillance security and other police activities howeverneed the camera to be less visible from casual observation, which thepresent devices do not provide.

[0010] Further, while some video cameras incorporate a recordingapparatus within the camera, often, the recorder is a separate componentconnected to the video camera by communication cables. As a separatecomponent, the recorder is usually permanently mounted to a portion ofthe wall of the trunk of the vehicle. This makes access to the recorderand tapes cumbersome, time consuming, and unsatisfactory. Space within apolice vehicle however is at premium for storage of equipment andmaterials. The video recorder needs to be secure so that it is notindependently moving while the vehicle is traveling, yet must be readilyand easily accessible for retrieval and exchange of recording tapes.

[0011] Accordingly, there is a need in the art for improved mounts forvideo recording equipment in vehicles. It is to such that the presentinvention is directed.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012] The present invention meets the need in the art by providing avideo and audio imaging apparatus incorporated with a vehicle seat forpositioning in a vehicle for receiving video and audio images. The videoand audio imaging apparatus and vehicle seat for positioning in avehicle for receiving video images and audio comprises a vehicle seathaving an elongate member extending from a lateral upper portionthereof. A panoramic mirror mounts in a distal end portion, which distalend portion communicates light theretrough to the mirror. An imagereceiving lens is placed at an opposing end of the tube for receivingimages communicated by the mirror. A recorder is provided for recordingsignals representative of the images received by the lens.

[0013] In another aspect, the present invention provides a video imagingapparatus for an aircraft pilot seat, comprising an aircraft pilot seatwith a housing mounted adjacent thereto. The housing defines a cavitytherein lateral and upward of the seat and centrally disposed relativeto a central axis of the aircraft. An imaging apparatus is fixedlysecured within the housing for imaging in one or more directions fromadjacent said seat such that said imaging apparatus is unobstructed byuse of said seat as a seat. The camera imaging apparatus includes one ormore lenses and is adapted to create one or more electrical signalrepresentative of the images received by said one or more lens. A signaltransmitting pathway is provided for transmitting the one or moreelectrical signal. A signal receiving device communicates with thesignal transmitting pathway.

[0014] In another aspect, the present invention provides a cameraimaging apparatus for retrofit use with seats of delivery vehicles,comprising a sleeve for being slidably received on a back of a seat in adelivery vehicle. A support is disposed at an upper lateral portion ofthe sleeve. An imaging apparatus is fixedly attached to said support fordisposing said imaging apparatus substantially centrally relative to acentral axis of said delivery vehicle receiving said sleeve, for imagingin one or more directions from said seat such that said camera imagingapparatus is unobstructed by use of said seat as a seat. The imagingapparatus includes one or more lenses and adapted to create one or moreelectrical signal representative of the images received by said one ormore lens. A signal transmitting pathway is provided for transmittingsaid one or more electrical signal to a signal receiver thatcommunicates with said signal transmitting pathway.

[0015] In another aspect, the present invention provides a method ofproviding a vehicle with an imaging device, comprising the steps of (a)opening an upper portion of a cover of a seat; (b) attaching a supportto a frame member of the seat such that the support has a distal endextending laterally of the seat towards a central axis portion of thevehicle; (c) attaching an image receiving apparatus to the support; (d)securing a signal recorder to the seat; and (e) connecting a signaltransmitting pathway to the image receiving device and the signalrecorder, klwhereby seats of vehicles are equipped after-market withimage recording devices for recording images of operation of thevehicle.

[0016] In another aspect, the present invention provides an seat with aseatback and a support arm extending laterally therefrom. A mountconnects to the support arm and is adapted for selective angularorientation relative to the support arm. A video imaging apparatus isfixedly secured to the mount for imaging in one or more directions byselective positioning of said mount with the video imaging apparatusdisposed laterally of the seat and substantially centrally relative to acentral axis of the vehicle. The camera imaging apparatus includes oneor more lenses and adapted to create one or more electrical signalrepresentative of the images received by said one or more lens. A signaltransmitting pathway transmits the one or more electrical signal and asignal receiving device communicates with the signal transmittingpathway.

[0017] Objects, advantages and features of the present invention willbecome apparent from a reading of the following detailed description ofthe invention and claims in view of the appended drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018]FIG. 1 illustrates in perspective view a headrest camera mount forattaching to the seat of a vehicle, according to the present invention.

[0019]FIG. 2 is a cutaway detailed illustration of the headrest cameramount illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0020]FIG. 3 is a side cutaway view of an embodiment of the headrestcamera mount including a support or pivotally positioning the camera ata selected angle.

[0021]FIG. 4 is a detailed exploded perspective view of the camera mountillustrated in FIG. 3.

[0022]FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a seat back for a vehicle havingan integral headrest with a camera mount according to the presentinvention.

[0023]FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a seat in a vehicle including thevideo headrest illustrated in FIG. 1, with a pivotable seat cushion foraccessing a video recorder mounted in the seat.

[0024]FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a seat in a vehicle with a videorecorder slidably mounted in the seat.

[0025]FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a seat in a vehicle with a videorecorder mounted in the back of the seat.

[0026]FIG. 9 is a perspective rear view of seat in a vehicle with avideo imaging apparatus of the present invention.

[0027]FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a cockpit of an aircraft withvideo imaging apparatus.

[0028]FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of a seat of a vehicleillustrating an alternate embodiment of the video imaging apparatus forafter-market installation in a vehicle.

[0029]FIG. 12 is rear perspective view of the video imaging apparatusillustrated in FIG. 11.

[0030]FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a delivery truck having analternate embodiment of the imaging apparatus of the present invention.

[0031]FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a camera mount useful with thepresent invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0032] Referring now in more detail to the drawings in which like partshave like identifiers, FIG. 1 illustrates in perspective view a headrest10 that attaches to a seat 12 of a vehicle while containing a videocamera 14 shown exploded away. The headrest 10 has an elongate member 16in which a distal end 18 defines a bore 20. A threaded connector 22extends through the bore 20. The connector 22 includes a groove whichreceives a C-ring. The C-ring conventionally prevents the connector 22from coming out to the bore 20.

[0033] A cushion 28 for the headrest 10 includes a resilient cover 30that encloses a foam core 32. The cushion 28 attaches conventionally tothe elongate member 16. The core 32 does not extend the full length ofthe elongate member, so that a portion 34 of the cover 30 defines acavity 36. The cavity 36 receives the video camera 14, which has athreaded bore in a bottom surface for engaging the connector 22. Thevideo camera 14 thereby sits on the elongate member 16 and the connector22 secures the video camera to the member. The headrest 10 defines anopen end 33. The headrest 10 defines an open end 33 which is covered bya removable detachable plate 35. Pins 37 extend laterally from the plate35 for engaging mating portions of the cover 30, whereby the headresthas a selectively closed distal end. Further, removal of the plate 35permits access to control buttons on the video camera 14. A support 38attaches conventionally to the member 16 and depends away from theheadrest 10. The support 38 is received within a slot 39 in the seat 12for connecting the headrest 10 to the seat 12.

[0034] As shown in FIG. 2, a front surface of the cover 30 defines anopening 40 through which a lens 41 receives light for communicating animage to the video camera 14. A detachable cap 42 exploded from theheadrest 10 covers the opening 40 when the video camera 38 is removed oris not in use. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, the open end 33is a closed by a door 44 that defines a side face of the cushion 28. Thedoor 44 attaches along a hinge 46 to a lower portion of the cover 30. Inthe illustrated embodiment, the door 44 also defines an open port 45,which may be closed by a detachable cover (not illustrated) for apurpose discussed below. Other doors may be gainfully used; for example,a door which slides from a closed position to an open position. A pin 48projects laterally from a distal portion of the door 44. A plate 50attaches to an upper portion 52 of the side of the headrest 10. Theplate 50 defines an opening 54 for receiving the pin 48 when the doorfor selectively holding the door closed. As may be appreciated by one ofordinary skill in the art, a back surface of the headrest 10 likewisemay include an opening for the lens of video camera to record imagesfrom a rearward perspective. In an alternate embodiment, a recorderseparate from the camera is mounted in the vehicle, for instance in thetrunk. A cable (not illustrated) connects between the video camera 14and the recorder.

[0035]FIG. 3 is a side cutaway view of the headrest 10 having a pivotsupport 6 rigidly connected to the members 16 a bolt 62 locks the pivotsupport 60 in a selected position whereby the video camera 14 ispositioned at a selected angle. FIG. 4 provides a detailed exploded viewof the pivot support 60 comprises a base plate 64 having a pair ofupwardly extending spaced-apart parallel flanges 66, 68. The base 64 isrigidly connected to the member 16 with a fastener 70 such as bolts,rivets, or the like. The flanges 66, 68 in the illustrated embodimenthave a trapezoid shape in end view, with the wider base of the trapezoidintegral with the base plate 64. The flange 66 defines a bore 72. Theflange 68 defines a threaded bore 74 co-axially aligned with the bore72.

[0036] A pivot plate 76 defines a surface 78 on which the video camera14 rests. The pivot plate 76 defines a bore 80 which receives aconnector 82 for engaging the threaded bore in the video camera 14whereby the video camera is rigidly connected to the pivot plate 76. Aflange 84 depends from the surface 78 at one side. The flange 84 definesa bore 86 which is aligned with the bores 72 and 74 when the flange 84is positioned between the flanges 66, 68.

[0037]FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a portion of a seat back for aseat in a vehicle. The seat back 90 includes an integral headrestgenerally 92 which defines a cavity 94 for receiving the video camera14. The seat 92 has a frame 96 which defines a perimeter shape of theseat back 90 and the headrest 92. A core member formed of cushioningmaterials is received by the frame. A seat cover over lies the coremember and the frame to define the seat back.

[0038] The headrest 92 includes a portion of the core member generally,a core body 98. Typically, the headrest portion of the seat is anextension of the seat back, and may be planer, or arcuate, to conform instyle to the seat. In the particular illustrated embodiment, the corebody has a main portion that defines a first concave recess 100 on aforward face of the core body. The recess 100 receives a head of aperson occupying the seat. A second portion 102 of the core body 98defines a second concave recess on the forward face of the core bodylateral of the main portion 100. The first and second recesses 100 and102 are separated by a forwardly projecting ridge 104. In an alternateembodiment (not illustrated), the second portion 103 defines a planerforward face. It should be noted that the ridge 104 cooperates with theextending opposite side of the recess 100 to receive the head of a seatoccupant, while restricting the head from inadvertently blocking theview of the video camera 14.

[0039] The cavity 94 is defined within the second portion of the corebody 102. A port in a side wall of the seat 90 is closed by a cover 106.The frame 96 engages a support member which defines a bore for receivinga threaded connector to which the video camera 14 is secured. Theforward surface of the headrest 92 defines an opening in the secondrecess 102 whereby the lens of the video camera receives light forrecording images. It is the noted that the support 60 illustrated inFIG. 3 may gainfully be installed in the cavity 94 for selectivelypositioning the video camera 14 in the integral seat back 90 forrecording images.

[0040]FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a seat 120 in a vehicle, includingthe video headrest 10 with a seat cushion 122 shown in a pivotedposition for accessing a video recorder 124 mounted within the seat. Theseat 120 includes a frame 126 from which a seat back 128 extends.Conventional seatback adjustment mechanism may be included and are nototherwise illustrated for adjusting an angle of the seatback. Theheadrest 10 includes the camera 14 and mounts on supports 38 whichextend from an upper portion of the seat back 128. The seat cushion 122is selectively movable from a first position for sitting and a secondposition-for accessing the video recorder 124. In the illustratedembodiment, the seat cushion 122 connects at a forward edge with hinges130 to the seat frame 126. The hinges 130 permit the seat cushion 122 tomove from the first position with the cushion received within the frame126 for seating purposes and the second position, as illustrated. In thefirst position, a back edge 132 of the cushion 122 is received against alower side face 134 of the seat back 128. The hinges 130 permit the seatcushion 122 to pivot forward, as illustrated, to the second position forproviding access to the video recorder 124.

[0041] The video recorder 124 includes an access door 136 for receivinga video recording tape (not illustrated). In the illustrated embodiment,a pair of supports 138, 140 are fixedly secured within the seat frame126 to a floorboard of the vehicle. In the illustrated embodiment, aplurality of threaded fasteners 142 extend through the supports 138, 140to rigidly connect the recorder 124 to the supports. A cover 137connects with hinges 139 to the support 138. A lip 141 of the cover 137over hangs the support 140. The lip 141 includes a slot 143 forreceiving a key that engages a lock 145 to secure the cover 137 closedover the video recorder 124.

[0042] A wiring harness 144 communicates between the recorder 124 andthe video camera 14. A coupler 146 connects to a mating coupler 148 of aharness 150 for providing electrical power to the video recorder 124 andthe camera 14 as well as providing control wiring for operation of therecorder and the camera. The video camera 14 and the recorder 124 alsocommunicate with a video display screen 152 and can incorporate otherfunctions such as position locating and speed detection devices. In theillustrated embodiment the video display screen 152 mounts in thedashboard 154. The video display screen 152 connects through a harness156 to the harness 150, 144 for the video recorder 124 and the videocamera 14, for display of images received by the camera or on a tapeplayed by the recorder.

[0043] As illustrated, the present invention further provides aplurality of video cameras 160 that mount in the headrest 10. It shouldbe appreciated that the video camera 14 is illustrated as a conventionaltype camera, and it is noted that smaller CCD (charge-coupled devices)functioning as cameras 160 provide the ability to receive images from aforward, side, and rear view. Similar cameras mounted in the adjacentheadrest (not illustrated) provides coverage in the remaining sidedirection. Accordingly, multiple configurations of video image receivingcameras 14, 160 are available. In one embodiment, one video camera ispreset for telephoto imaging and a CCD device 160 is preset for wideangle viewing. A controller enables a user to select between the cameras14, 160 depending on the image to be recorded. For example, the camera14 preset to telephoto would be used for recording a license plate andcar from a long distance.

[0044] While the present invention is disclosed with respect to a singleheadrest in a vehicle, it is to be appreciated that the cameras 14, 160could readily be mounted in the opposing end of the headrest for use ona driver's portion of the seats, whereby the cameras would also receivedashboard information, such as the speed of the vehicle or other vehiclespeed via a detection device. In the embodiment having a plurality ofside, rear, and forward view cameras 14, 160, a camera control moduleprovides functional controls over the cameras and the recorder foron/off, telephoto, and camera selection, whereby the user can readilyswitch among selected views provided by the cameras. Further, in analternate embodiment, the seat cushion 122 pivots about the back side,rather than the front. In a second alternate embodiment, the seatcushion 122 pivots from one side. It is noted that the present inventionis likewise installable in either a passenger side or a driver side ofthe seat in the vehicle.

[0045] In an alternate embodiment, the video equipment communicates witha transmitter placed preferably behind the dashboard for broadcasting avideo signal to a remote receiver, such as an operations control center.

[0046]FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a seat 170 in a vehicle, includinga seat cushion 172 which encloses a sliding drawer 174 for holding thevideo recorder 124 mounted within the seat 170. A shield 173, such as aplastic sheet, prevents spilled liquids from entering the video recorder124. The shield 173 in an alternate embodiment is a metal sheet tofurther restrict access to the video recorder 124. The video recorder124 mounts securely, preferably with fasteners such as bolts (notillustrated), into the drawer 174. The sliding drawer 174 has a pair ofopposing sliding arms 176 that define a channel in which pairs ofaligned roller 178 travel. The rollers 178 connect with axles to thedrawer 174; the sliding arms attach to the frame of the seat.Conventional drawer slides may be gainfully used, whereby the drawer 174is movable from a first position recessed within the seat 170 and asecond position outwardly of a forward face 180 of the seat 170. A frontpanel 182 of the drawer 174 includes a lock 184 for securing the drawerin the first position. The seat 170 includes a frame from which a seatback 186 extends. Conventional seatback adjustment mechanism may beincluded and are not otherwise illustrated for adjusting an angle of theseatback. One embodiment of this apparatus gainfully uses the headrest10 that includes the camera 14 and mounts on supports 38 which extendfrom an upper portion of the seat back 186. The illustrated embodimenthas a conventional headrest 192. A support 194 extends laterally from ashoulder portion of the back 186. The support 194 defines at least onehole for receiving a threaded fastener whereby the camera 14 is securedto the support 194. A housing is illustrated in phantom for enclosingthe camera 14. In an alternate embodiment, the pivot support 60 isattached to the support 194 for engaging the camera 14.

[0047] The wiring harness 144 communicates between the recorder 124 andthe video camera 14. The couplers 146, 148 connect to the harness 150for providing electrical power to the video recorder 124 and the camera14 as well as providing control wiring for operation of the recorder,the camera, and a microphone for audio signals. The microphone can be aconventional wireless microphone/transmitter such as the vest andshoulder microphone 190 typically used by police or a directly wiredmicrophone for communicating with the video recorder 124. The videocamera 14 and the recorder 124 also communicate with a video displayscreen 152 and can incorporate other functions such as position locatingand speed detection devices. In the illustrated embodiment, the videodisplay screen 152 mounts in the dashboard 154. In the illustratedembodiment, the housing for the video display 152 includes a pluralityof control buttons for controlling the operation of the video camera 14,the video recorder 124, and the display 152. A controller is disclosedin my patent application Ser. No. 09/353,113, filed Jul. 14, 1999, withthe United States Patent and Trademark Office, which application isincorporated herein by reference. The video display screen 152 connectsthrough a harness 156 to the harness 150, 144 for the video recorder 124and the video camera 14, for display of images received by the camera oron a tape played by the recorder.

[0048] As illustrated, the present invention gainfully uses theplurality of video cameras 160, which are preferably the smaller CCD(charge-coupled devices), CMOS, and the like, that function as camerasto provide the ability to receive images from forward, side, and rearviews, selectively, with multiple configurations of video imagereceiving cameras 14, 160. The controller enables a user to selectbetween the cameras 14, 160 depending on the image to be recorded.

[0049]FIG. 8 illustrates an alternate embodiment in which the videorecorder 124 is mounted in the seat back 186. The video recorder 124connects securely with fasteners to a door 200 that pivots on hinges 202connected to a member 204 of the seat frame. The door 200 selectivelyincludes a lock (not illustrated) for controlling access to the videorecorder. The control cables 144 interconnect the video recorder 124,the camera 14, 160, and the controller/display 152, for operation of thevideo and audio imaging apparatus, with power supplied from the vehicleby a connector generally 210 into the wiring harness 144.

[0050] With reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the video camera headrest mountof the present invention is incorporated in vehicles for use inrecording images and audio from the vehicle. The disclosed embodimentshows the camera mount on a right side of the headrest 10 and the seat90. It should be noted that the camera cavity 36 and 94 may be locatedon the left side thereof, or the cavity may be formed on both sides ofthe headrest and seat. The support 38 is slidingly received in the slot39 in the back of the seat 12. As may be appreciated, some seats invehicles have a pair of spaced-apart slots which each receive a tubularmember extending from a conventional headrest, and such supports arelikewise included with the scope of the present invention as alternativesupports 38. Other headrests include apparatus for pivoting the headrestto accommodate personal preferences in positioning, and the presentinvention may include such additional features.

[0051] The door 44 is pivoted open by detaching the pin 48 from theopening 54 and pulling the door at its distal end 52 downwardly towardsthe seat 12. The video camera 14 is inserted through the opening in theside of the headrest 10 into the cavity 36. The connector 22 isthreadably engaged to the video camera 14 to secure the video camera 14with the lens aligned with the opening 40. The cap 42 is detached duringoperation of the video camera. The door 44 is pivoted closed with thepin 48 engaging the opening 54. Also, the video camera maybe oriented sothat the lens is pointed towards the port 45, for recording images tothe side of the vehicle.

[0052] With reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, the cavity 36 may include thepivot plate 60. The connector 82 extending through the pivot plate 76engages the video camera 14. The bolt 62 is loosened and the pivot plate76 tilted about the bolt with the flange 94 disposed between the flanges66, 68. The bolt 62 is tightened when the pivot plate 76 is at theselected angle. The lens of the video camera aligns with the opening inthe headrest for recording images.

[0053] With reference to FIG. 5, the seat back 90 is preferablyinstalled as original equipment by the manufacturer of the vehicle,although a secondary market is not excluded. The cover 106 is detachedfrom the side of the seat back 90. The video camera 14 is inserted intothe cavity 94 and attached to the support by the threaded connector. Thecover 106 is reinstalled, after the video camera 14 is started. In analternate embodiment, remote control devices are used to control theoperation of the camera.

[0054] For police operations, the video camera 14 is connected by acable to a controller for activation of the recording. The video camera14 records automatically when the siren or lights are activated, andsuch control device is conventional. The headrest according to thepresent invention provides a conventional appearing headrestindependently insertable into the backs of seats in vehicles orintegrally included in seatbacks, with the cavity for holding a videocamera for recording. It is preferred that the video recorder 124 bedigital, for a smaller size to fit a conventional size seat bottom. Inan alternate embodiment, the headrest 10 and seat 90 receive a lensdevice which communicates by a cable to a separate recorder mountedelsewhere in the vehicle.

[0055] With reference to FIG. 6, the video recording mount for vehiclesaccording to the present invention is operated by pivoting the seat 122from the closed position for seating to the upright open position foraccessing the video recorder 124 as illustrated in FIG. 6. The cover 137is unlocked and pivoted open. The video recorder 124 is operated to openthe door 136 for insertion or removal of video recording tapes asappropriate. The cover 137 is then moved to the second position andsecured closed with the lock 145. The seat 122 is pivoted to the closedposition for seating. The video recorder 124 accordingly is readilyaccessible to a police officer for exchange of video tapes without unduedifficulty. The video recorder 124 and cameras 14, 160 are preferablylinked by the controller to the operation of the vehicle emergencylights and siren. The cameras 14, 160 and the recorder 124 commenceoperation upon activation of the emergency lights or siren. However, thecontroller also provides for manual activation of the cameras 14, 160and the recorder 124. The controller further allows selecting betweenthe cameras 14, 160 for selective recording of various views from aroundthe vehicle. The video image received by the cameras is selectiverecorded on the tape in the video recorder 124, or two or more of thevideo signals can be recorded on the tape for subsequent playback anduse. A conventional remote control device as well as a wirelessmicrophone communicates with the recorder 124. The wireless microphonepermits the audio of the activity outside the vehicle to be recorded.The present invention accordingly provides a comprehensive videosurveillance monitoring and recording apparatus in a vehicle, togetherwith ready and convenient access to the recorder 124, the video camera14, and a display screen 152. In an alternate embodiment, the videocameras 14, 160 are incorporated within an integral headrest asillustrated in FIG. 5.

[0056] With reference to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7, the videorecorder 124 is accessible by unlocking the lock 184 and sliding thedrawer 174 from the first position to the second position outwardly ofthe face 180 of the seat 170. The video tape is inserted, or replaced,by operating the controls of the video recorder 124 which areconventional, for opening and closing the video tape chamber. The drawer174 in the illustrated embodiment moves on the rollers 178, or glides,plastic blocks, and the like, traveling in the channel arms 176,although other sliding members may be gainfully used. The drawer 174 ispushed back into the seat 170 to the second position, and the lock 184is locked.

[0057] As discussed above, the video recorder 124 and cameras 14, 160are preferably linked by the controller to the operation of the vehicleemergency lights and siren. The controller can be in-dash, such as theillustrated video display 152 or locally to the seat. The cameras 14,160 and the recorder 124 commence operation upon activation of theemergency lights or siren. However, the controller also provides formanual activation of the cameras 14, 160 and the recorder 124. Thecameras 14, 160 are disposed laterally of the central portion of theseat back 186 to avoid interference by a person in the seat to theimages received by the cameras. The controller further allows selectingbetween the cameras 14, 160 for selective recording of various viewsfrom around the vehicle. The video image received by the cameras isselective recorded on the tape in the video recorder 124, or two or moreof the video signals can be recorded on the tape for subsequent playbackand use. A conventional remote control device as well as a wirelessmicrophone 190 (or direct microphone) communicates with the recorder124. The wireless microphone permits the audio of the activity outsidethe vehicle to be recorded. The present invention accordingly provides acomprehensive video surveillance monitoring and recording apparatus in avehicle, together with ready and convenient access to the recorder 124,the video camera 14, and a display screen 152. In an alternateembodiment, the video cameras 14, 160 are incorporated within anintegral headrest as illustrated in FIG. 5.

[0058] The apparatus of FIG. 8 is used similarly, by accessing therecorder 124 through the door 200, which pivots on the hinge 202,whereby tapes can replaced as necessary.

[0059]FIG. 9 illustrates an image receiving apparatus 500 according tothe present invention for use with a vehicle seat (a seatback portion501 is illustrated). The image receiving apparatus 500 includes anelongate tube 502 that houses a panoramic mirror 504 inverted andsecured in a distal end portion 506 of the tube 502. The portion 506 istransparent whereby light communicates through a side wall of the tubeto the mirror 504. The mirror 504 deflects the light longitudinallyalong the tube 502. The remaining portion of the tube wall is preferablyopaque to prevent light communication. This reduces glare and reflectionof light within the tube. A lens 508 mounts at an opposing end of thetube 502. The lens 508 receives images from the light communicatedthrough the side of the tube 502 and reflected by the mirror 504. Thelens 508 communicates a signal representative of the image to an imagestorage device 510. In the illustrated embodiment, the lens 508communicates the signal by a wiring harness 511 to a video imagerecorder 510. The video image recorder is preferably mounted to thestructure of the vehicle in which the imaging receiving apparatus isinstalled. For example, the video image recorder 124 shown in FIG. 7 ismounted below the seat in a drawer or as shown in FIG. 5 below apivotable seat cushion, but may also be disposed as illustrated in apocket or recess 512 in a back of the seat, or within a dashboard, orother vehicle location, for access to the tape or other recording mediumin the recorder. The recess 512 in the illustrated embodiment is closedby a door 514 and the door preferably includes a lock for securing therecorder from unauthorized access.

[0060] In the illustrated embodiment, the tube 502 is selectivelyextendable from a channel 516 defined in laterally portion of the back501 of the seat. This positions the image-receiving tube 502 with lenslaterally of the seat and substantially centrally relative to a centralaxis of the vehicle, and thereby allowing ordinary and conventional useof the seat and occupant protection features such as a headrests whileoperating the image-receiving apparatus of the present invention. Suchprovides a view and recordation of images that is substantially that ofthe person in the seat. In the illustrated embodiment, an end of thetube 502 bears against a spring 518 that biases the tube to an extendedposition. The tube includes a catch 520 that engages a release 522 thatextends into the channel 516. The release 522 is selectively movable,whereby the tube 502 extends from the channel upon moving the release.The release 522 is operated manually by depressing a plate (notillustrated) or automatically by an electric solenoid-actuated triggersuch as in an emergency vehicle in response to actuation of siren oremergency flashing lights.

[0061] The lens in the image receiving apparatus 500, and otherembodiments described herein, is a light receiving and communicatingdevice, such as a glass or plastic transparent body, a pinhole, anoptical lens, CCD device, or other such image receiver. The imagerecording device is a conventional video tape recorder in an independenthousing, a recorder contained within a housing with the lens, a digitalrecorder device, a writable light-sensitive recording/playing apparatus,or other such device using a recordable medium.

[0062] The invention of the present invention positions image receivingapparatus laterally of a vehicle seat and substantially centrallyrelative to a central axis of the vehicle to allow ordinary andconventional use of the seat and occupant protection features such as aheadrests even while operating the image-receiving apparatus of thepresent invention, to provide viewing and recordation of imagessubstantially that of the occupant of the seat. FIG. 10 is a perspectiveview of a cockpit generally 540 of an aircraft facing forward towards awindshield 542, instrument panel 544, and a pair of side-by-side seats546, 547 for the pilots. A housing 548 extends from a structure of thecockpit 540. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 548 standsadjacent the seat 546 extending upwardly from a floor of the cockpit540. An upper portion of the housing 548 defines a cavity 550 forreceiving an image receiving device 542 that communicates a signalrepresentative of the received image to a recording device. In oneembodiment, the image receiving device 542 is a self-contained videocamera that houses a lens and recorder. In an alternate embodiment, theimage receiving device 542 is a lens device that communicates to aremote recorder. The recorder may be modified for an endless-loop tapeor recording media suitable for recording over a predetermined period.It is to be appreciated that embodiments of the present invention arelikewise gainfully employed in other vehicles, including a train engine,a boat, a car, or other vehicle.

[0063] Alternate embodiments accommodate the crowded cockpits of manyaircraft. In one embodiment, the housing 548 comprises an arm thatextends from a structure of the cockpit, such as the ceiling orlaterally from a side wall. A distal end portion of the arm defines thecavity 550 for receiving the image receiver 542. The cavity includes amounting device for securing the image receiver therein. For aconventional video camera, the mounting device is a threaded bolt. Acover closes the cavity 550, and preferably, includes a lock to securethe image receiving device 542 within the cavity.

[0064] The image receiving device 542 receives images during operationof the aircraft. Preferably the receiving and recordation of imagesoccurs automatically without requiring activation or attention by thecrew. The image receiving device 542, being disposed laterally of thecrew seat and centrally relative to a central axis of the aircraft,provides images from a view substantially that of the crew while notinterfering with the use of the seat for flying purposes and withoutobstruction to the receiving of images.

[0065]FIG. 11 illustrates an image receiving and recording apparatus 560of the present invention particularly adapted for retrofitting toexisting seats with minimal changes. The apparatus 560 defines a sleeve562 open at one end for slidingly covering a seatback 564 such as a seat566 of a package delivery truck. The sleeve 562 has a support 564 at anupper end to which an image receiving device 568 connects. The support564 extends laterally of the seat, whereby the image receiving device568 is disposed laterally of the seat and substantially centrallyrelative to a central axis of the delivery truck. This allows ordinaryand conventional use of the seat 566 and occupant protection featuressuch as a headrest and seatbelts while operating the image-receivingapparatus 568 of the present invention to obtain images substantiallyfrom the prospective of the occupant of the seat. As illustrated in backview in FIG. 12, the sleeve 562 includes a pocket 570 for holding animage recorder. The pocket 570 includes a overlapping flap 572 thatincludes securing devices, such as snaps, matingly engagable fabricconnectors, buttons, and the like for closing the pocket to hold therecording device within the pocket. The image receiving device 568connects through a wiring harness to the image recorder. The wiringharness connects through a coupler to a wiring harness of the vehiclefor providing a supply of power to the image receiver and the recorder.In an alternate embodiment, a controller connects to the wiring harness,whereby the image recorder is selectively operated in various modes suchas recording or pause during operation of the delivery truck.

[0066]FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a cab 580 of a vehicle, such as avehicle used for package delivery. The cab 580 includes a seat 582attached to a selectively positioned column 583 rigidly attached at oneend to the floor of the cab. The seat 582 includes an image receivingapparatus 584 attached to a support 586. The support 586 attaches to aportion of a frame 587 for the seat 582. A tray 588 attaches to a secondportion of the seat. In the illustrated embodiment, the tray 588attaches to a bottom of the seat 582 with bolts passing through holes inlaterally extending flanges 590. The tray 588 defines a surface to whicha recording device 594 rigidly attaches. A wiring harness 596 connectsbetween the recording device 594 and the imaging device. A portion ofthe wiring harness 596 connects to a power cable 598 of the deliverytruck, for operating the recorder and the imaging device.

[0067] The imaging apparatus of the present invention is readilyinstalled as an after-market product, particularly for delivery trucksand other vehicles for which recording of the operation and activitiesof the vehicle is important, such as for accident incident monitoring.The seat 582 is opened in an upper portion to expose the frame member587. The support 586 is rigidly attached to the frame member 587. Thisis accomplished by welding or with bolts connecting the two together.The tray 588 is installed. Although not illustrated, bolts pass throughholes in the opposing flanges 590 to secure the tray 588 to the bottomof the seat 582. In an alternate embodiment, the tray mounts to an sideportion of the seat 582, where access and mounting may be easier in someseats. The recording device 594 is secured to the tray. The wiringharness 596 is connected between the imaging device 584, the recorder594, and the power supply 598 of the vehicle. The cover of the seat 582is closed to enclose the attachment of the support 586 to the frame 587.The imaging apparatus 584 is operated to record images of the operationof the vehicle from the cab 580. The support 586 preferably disposes theimage receiving device 584 laterally of the seat and substantiallycentrally relative to a central axis of the vehicle to allow ordinaryand conventional use of the seat even while operating theimage-receiving apparatus, to provide viewing and recordation of imagessubstantially that of the occupant of the seat, in accordance with thepresent invention.

[0068]FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a camera mount 600 useful withthe present invention. The camera mount 600 includes a base 602 thatattaches to the support 194 of the seatback 186 (as illustrated in FIG.7). A rotatable plate 604 pivotably connects to the base 602 forselective rotation relative to the base as indicated by the arrow 601. Aplurality of pins 605 are received in holes in the plate 604. The pins605 selectively move between a retracted position and an extendedposition. An outward end of each of the pins 605 connects to a supportplate 603. A video imaging device 606, such as a video camera, mounts tothe support plate 603. A controller 607 includes a movable arm 608 and arocker switch 610 which are operatively coupled through control wiring611 to the base 602 for operating the rotatable plate 604 and the pins605. The controller 607 preferably mounts (not illustrated) to astructure of the vehicle, such as a dashboard or arm, which position isreadily reachable during operation of the vehicle. In the illustratedembodiment, a microphone 612 mounts in the seatback 186 with a facetowards a rear portion of the vehicle. In an alternate embodiment, themicrophone is unidirectional and mounts in an upper surface of theseatback 186. The microphone 612 communicates through a wiring harness614 to the video imaging device 606, which wiring harness alsocommunicates with a power supply and a controller for operating themodes of the camera imaging device and a recorder connected thereto.

[0069] The video imaging support 600 is used for selective angularorientation relative to the support arm for positioning the view of thevideo imaging device 606 relative to the seatback 186. The arm 608 ismanipulated, forward, back, and laterally, to cause the pins 605 to moverelative to the rotatable plate 604. As the pins 605 move in and outbetween the retracted position and the extended position, the planedefined by the support plate 603 is caused to move, thereby changing theangulation of the view of the video imaging device. Further, the rockerswitch 610 is selectively operated to cause the rotatable plate 604 isrotate relative to the base 602. The rotatable plate 604 is selectivelypositioned within the range of movement relative to the base 602. Themicrophone 612 communicates sound from within the vehicle to therecorder associated with the video imaging apparatus.

[0070] It is thus seen that an improved headrest and seat video imagingapparatus is provided for mounting a video camera and recorder in avehicle as an integrated system. While this invention has been describedin detail with particular reference to the preferred embodimentsthereof, the principles and modes of operation of the present inventionhave been described in the foregoing specification. The invention is notto be construed as limited to the particular forms disclosed becausethese are regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive. Moreover,modifications, variations and changes may be made by those skilled inthe art without departure from the spirit and scope of the invention asdescribed by the following claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A video and audio imaging apparatus and vehicleseat for positioning in a vehicle for receiving video images and audio,comprising: a vehicle seat having an elongate member extending from alateral upper portion thereof; a panoramic mirror mounted in a distalend portions and which distal end portion communicates light theretroughto the mirror; an image receiving lens at an opposing end of the memberfor receiving images communicated by the mirror; and a recorder forrecording signals representative of the images received by the lens. 2.The video imaging apparatus and vehicle seat as recited in claim 1,wherein the member is selectively extendable from a channel in the seat.3. The video imaging apparatus and vehicle seat as recited in claim 1,wherein the member is a tube.
 4. An aircraft pilot seat and videoimaging apparatus, comprising: an aircraft pilot seat with a housingmounted adjacent thereto and defining a cavity therein lateral andupward of the seat and centrally disposed relative to a central axis ofthe aircraft; an imaging apparatus fixedly secured within the housingfor imaging in one or more directions from said seat such that saidimaging apparatus is unobstructed by use of said seat as a seat; saidcamera imaging apparatus including one or more lenses and adapted tocreate one or more electrical signal representative of the imagesreceived by said one or more lens; and a signal transmitting pathway fortransmitting said one or more electrical signal; and a signal receivingdevice communicating with the signal transmitting pathway.
 5. Theaircraft pilot seat and video imaging apparatus as recited in claim 4,wherein the signal receiving device is signal recorder.
 6. A cameraimaging apparatus for retrofit use with seats of delivery vehicles,comprising: a sleeve for being slidably received on a back of a seat ina delivery vehicle; a support at an upper lateral portion of the sleeve;am imaging apparatus fixedly attached to said support for disposing saidimaging apparatus substantially centrally relative to a central axis ofsaid delivery vehicle receiving said sleeve, for imaging in one or moredirections from said seat such that said camera imaging apparatus isunobstructed by use of said seat as a seat; said imaging apparatusincluding one or more lenses and adapted to create one or moreelectrical signal representative of the images received by said one ormore lens; a signal transmitting pathway for transmitting said one ormore electrical signal; and a signal receiver for communicating withsaid signal transmitting pathway.
 7. The camera imaging apparatus asrecited in claim 6, wherein said signal receiver comprises a recorderfor recording said electrical signal.
 8. A method of providing a vehiclewith an imaging device, comprising the steps of: (a) opening an upperportion of a cover of a seat; (b) attaching a support to a frame memberof the seat such that the support has a distal end extending laterallyof the seat towards a central axis portion of the vehicle; (c) attachingan image receiving apparatus to the support; (d) securing a signalrecorder to the seat; and (e) connecting a signal transmitting pathwayto the image receiving device and the signal recorder, whereby seats ofvehicles are equipped after-market with image recording devices forrecording images of operation of the vehicle.
 9. An vehicle seat andvideo imaging apparatus, comprising: an seat with a seatback and asupport arm extending laterally therefrom; a mount connected to thesupport arm, said mount adapted for selective angular orientationrelative to the support arm; a video imaging apparatus fixedly securedto the mount for imaging in one or more directions by selectivepositioning of said mount with the video imaging apparatus disposedlaterally of the seat and substantially centrally relative to a centralaxis of the vehicle; said camera imaging apparatus including one or morelenses and adapted to create one or more electrical signalrepresentative of the images received by said one or more lens; and asignal transmitting pathway for transmitting said one or more electricalsignal; and a signal receiving device communicating with the signaltransmitting pathway.
 10. The vehicle seat and video imaging apparatusas recited in claim 9, wherein said mount comprises a rotator forrotating the angle of view of the video imaging device relative to thesupport.
 11. The vehicle seat and video imaging apparatus as recited inclaim 9, wherein said mount comprises a pivoter to change the pivotangle of the view of the video imaging apparatus relative to thesupport.
 12. The vehicle seat imaging apparatus as recited in claim 9,wherein said mount comprises: a rotator for rotating the angle of viewof the video imaging device relative to the support; a pivoter to changethe pivot angle of the view of the video imaging apparatus relative tothe support; and a controller for selectively positioning the rotatorand the pivoter.